Following the fatal crash that caused the deaths of a softball team head coach and a student, Oregon police have arrested 32-year-old Jonathan Dowdy. He was driving the pickup truck that crashed into the team bus. Dowdy was charged with manslaughter, reckless endangerment, and driving under the influence, among other charges.
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According to Oregon State Police, and reported by the New York Post, Dowdy is currently being held at the Coos County Jail. In connection with the deaths of head coach Jami Strinz, 46, and Kiley Jones, 19, and the injuries suffered by the other 8 bus occupants, Jonathan Dowdy was charged with a multitude of charges.
According to Elkhorn Media Group, these are two counts of first-degree manslaughter, three counts of second-degree assault, five counts of third-degree assault, 14 counts of reckled endangering of a person, aggravated driving while suspended or revoked, driving under the influence of intoxcicants, reckless driving, driving while suspended, and secon-degree criminal mischief.
As per the Post, Dowdy's initial court appearance is yet to be had. There, he will have a defense attorney appointed for his case.
Fatal Car Crash
According to Oregon State Police, and reported by KGW, the crash took place on April 18 at 9:56 p.m. on Highway 42 in Coos County. The softball team from Umpqua Community College (UCC) was traveling to a softball game in Oregon.
Traveling west, Jonathan Dowdy crossed the center line and entered the eastbound lane. His truck then crashed head-on into the team bus. Jones was instantly killed. Strinz, who was driving the bus, was transported to a local hospital. She, however, succumbed to her injuries. The eight remaining occupants suffered moderate to severe injuries, according to police.
Dowdy was seriously injured during the crash and was rushed to a local hospital. At the time, police believed that Dowdy was impaired, which later turned into the DUI charge.
Dr. Rachel Pokrandt, UCC's president, issued a statement at the time, grieving the deaths of Jones and Strinz.
"UCC hearts are breaking with this news," Pokrandt wrote. "We ask the community to keep the families and all of those affected in their thoughts and prayers."
"These individuals were cherished members of our campus — an exceptional student-athlete, and a passionate and talented coach. Our entire community is grieving this tragic loss, and our heartfelt condolences are with their families, teammates, and loved ones."
